Sufjan Stevens, ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’

November 6, 2012

Sufjan Stevens first unveiled his rewrite of the national anthem live years ago, but yesterday’s election must’ve inspired him to share this fully formed studio take, as he posted the cut while votes were being tallied and half of the country’s polls had yet to close. Apt timing, for sure, but this take could work any day of the year to these ears. Sufjan takes liberties with the original melody, lyrics, and arrangement quite a bit, carrying it through bittersweet, mournful moods while staying true to the 19th century version’s rousing spirit. Give it a spin above.